KTM 790 Adventure 2020 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The KTM 790 Adventure 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles, but they have some key differences.

In terms of engine specifications, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has an in-line twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 799cc, producing 95 horsepower and 88 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 features a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc, delivering a higher power output of 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. This makes the Super Adventure S more powerful and suitable for riders looking for a sportier performance.

Both motorcycles come with a chain transmission and have a similar suspension setup. They feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has slightly larger front forks with a diameter of 48mm compared to the 43mm forks on the KTM 790 Adventure 2020. Both motorcycles offer 200mm of travel for both the front and rear suspension, ensuring excellent off-road capabilities.

KTM 790 Adventure 2020

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a chromium-molybdenum frame, but the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a tubular frame type. The Super Adventure S has a slightly steeper rake angle of 65.3 degrees compared to the 64.1 degrees of the 790 Adventure, which may affect the handling characteristics.

Braking systems on both motorcycles are similar, with double disk brakes at the front. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 comes with cornering ABS, which enhances safety during cornering maneuvers. Both motorcycles also feature advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170mm. The wheelbase of the Super Adventure S is slightly longer at 1560mm compared to the 1509mm of the 790 Adventure. The seat height of the Super Adventure S is also slightly higher, ranging from 849mm to 869mm, compared to the 830mm to 850mm range of the 790 Adventure. The dry weight of the Super Adventure S is significantly higher at 220kg compared to the 189kg of the 790 Adventure.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of strengths, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 is praised for its engine with manners and character, high chassis stability, excellent brakes, tremendous off-road capabilities, and low average consumption. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is commended for its very sporty and cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, and clear, well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 is criticized for its unattractive surcharge policy and the original seat not being optimally shaped. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is criticized for its somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that do not feel very high quality.

Overall, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities, whether they prioritize power and sportiness or off-road capabilities and comfort.